Szafnauer: 'That is why Vettel is such an important signing to us'

With the arrival of Sebastian Vettel on the horizon, Aston Martin team principal Otmar Szafnauer has given an insight into the reasoning behind the acquisition of the experienced, four-time world champion.

Szafnauer states that the goal of the newly christened Aston Martin is to compete for the title as quickly as possible and that bringing in Vettel is a big part of this. He explains: "In Sebastian, we have a proven four-time world champion with experience of helping teams become race-winning and championship-contending outfits.”

Szafnauer continued his argument, as quoted by Skysports.com: "That's why he is such an important signing for us. He brings a winning mentality and we will all undoubtedly learn a lot from him on this journey. … It's hugely exciting for everyone in the team.”

Whereas Racing Point previously consoled themselves with the fact that they were the most efficient team on the grid, Aston Martin are abandoning those aspirations to focus instead on chasing the championship. As previously reported, Szafnauer argues that he and his team have a mammoth task ahead of them.